Table accessories for restaurants (177)

Professional tableware accessories for the catering industry

Tableware serves both a practical and decorative purpose. It helps to present side dishes in an organised manner, complements the crockery, glassware and cutlery, and influences the overall appearance of the table setting.

In a professional establishment, it should be tailored to:

• the nature of the menu and the way dishes are served,
• the style of the crockery, glassware and cutlery,
• the size of the tables and the amount of space at each place setting,
• the organisation of kitchen and service staff,
• the frequency of use,
• the method of washing, storing and restocking.

Before purchasing, it is worth checking the specifications of a particular product, as its intended use and functional properties depend on the material and construction.

Trays and serving boards

Trays and boards allow you to serve snacks, bread, cheeses, cold cuts, burgers, desserts and dishes intended for sharing. They can also be used to create tasting platters and more informal table arrangements.

Depending on the type of food being served, you can choose:

• wooden serving boards – for bread, snacks, cheeses, burgers and rustic-style dishes,
• bar boards – useful when preparing side dishes, fruit and decorations,
• porcelain trays – for the elegant serving of starters, desserts and small accompaniments,
• melamine trays – for buffets, catering and less formal service,
• trays made of glass or other materials – for displaying desserts, snacks and buffet items.

When choosing, take into account the dimensions, weight, surface durability and cleaning method. Wooden items may require different care to porcelain, glass or melamine.

Serving boards

Wooden boards lend a natural and less formal feel to the table setting. They go well with earth-toned porcelain, hand-finished tableware and metal or stoneware accessories.

They can be used to serve:

• bread and baked goods,
• cheeses and cold meats,
• burgers and sandwiches,
• finger food,
• tasting platters,
• dishes served in small bowls.

Before the board comes into direct contact with food, check its intended use. Not every decorative or bar-style model is necessarily suitable for cutting or serving every type of food.

Salt and pepper mills

Spice mills allow you to grind salt, pepper and selected spices immediately before serving. They help preserve the product’s aroma and can be an elegant addition to the table setting.

When choosing a mill, it is worth paying attention to:

• the type of grinding mechanism,
• whether it is designed for salt, pepper or other spices,
• the ability to adjust the grind size,
• the capacity of the hopper,
• ease of filling,
• stability and ease of cleaning.

A salt mill should not automatically be used for pepper, or vice versa, unless the manufacturer has intended it for such use. Different types of spices may require different mechanisms.

Salt and pepper shakers

Salt and pepper shakers allow you to provide guests with basic seasonings directly on the table. They may come in a classic porcelain design, with transparent sides, or a decorative finish to match a specific tableware collection.

When choosing a set, it is worth checking:

• the size of the dispensing holes,
• ease of filling,
• stability of the base,
• clear distinction between salt and pepper,
• whether they can be thoroughly washed and dried,
• how well they match the style of the rest of the tableware.

The containers should be checked and refilled regularly, and the spices protected from moisture and clumping.

Bread baskets

Bread baskets help to present bread, rolls, croutons and small baked goods in an attractive manner. They are ideal for table service, hotel breakfasts, buffets, banquets and catering services.

The available models can be made from materials such as plastic, metal, wood or materials imitating natural wickerwork. When choosing, it is worth considering:

• the size of the bread portions,
• the number of guests being served,
• the option to use a napkin or insert,
• the material’s resistance to soiling,
• ease of cleaning,
• the amount of storage space required.

The basket should not be too deep or overfilled, so that guests can comfortably reach the bread.

Napkin holders and cutlery containers

Napkin holders help keep paper napkins tidy and prevent them from spilling out. They are ideal for tables, counters, buffets and self-service areas.

Containers and boxes for cutlery and napkins can help with organisation:

• hotel breakfasts,
• self-service buffets,
• spice and condiment stations,
• catering and outdoor events,
• table service in bistros and cafés,
• and table-setting preparation areas.

The size of the container should be chosen to suit the type of napkins, the length of the cutlery and the space available on the table or at the buffet station.

Jugs for water and drinks

Jugs are used to serve water, juices, lemonade, iced tea and other drinks. They can be used for traditional table service, at a buffet or during conferences.

When choosing, it is worth paying attention to:

• a capacity suited to the number of guests,
• a comfortable and stable handle,
• a spout shape that minimises dripping,
• the option to add ice, fruit or herbs,
• the inclusion of a lid,
• easy access to the interior when washing.

Before pouring a hot drink, check that the jug you have chosen can withstand such temperatures.

Jars and serving containers

Jars and small containers can be used to serve desserts, breakfasts, jams, sauces, dips and small accompaniments. Clear glass effectively showcases the layers and colour of the contents.

Models with lids help to present the product attractively before serving; however, not every jar is suitable for pasteurisation, long-term storage or transporting liquid contents.

The capacity should be matched to the actual portion size so that the vessel does not look empty or appear overfilled.

Dessert bowls and glassware

Dessert bowls are ideal for serving ice cream, desserts, fruit, mousses, creams and small snacks. The transparent glass showcases layers, sauces and decorations, making them well-suited for use in cafés, restaurants, hotels and at banquets.

When choosing a sundae glass, it is worth considering:

• capacity and portion size,
• the diameter of the opening,
• easy access with a spoon,
• stability of the base,
• the height of the bowl,
• whether it can be washed in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions.

Melamine tableware

Melamine is frequently used in buffets, catering and food displays. Tableware made from this material is available in many shapes, sizes and colours, allowing it to be tailored to the buffet layout or the way products are presented.

Depending on the model, they can be used to serve:

• salads and cold dishes,
• fruit and bread,
• snacks and side dishes,
• breakfast items,
• desserts,
• dishes presented in buffet set-ups.

Melamine should not be used in a microwave or oven, unless the manufacturer of the specific product explicitly states otherwise. Before use, check the permissible temperature range and the intended use of the dish.

Baking dishes

Baking dishes allow you to prepare and serve individual portions of snacks, bakes, desserts and side dishes. They may be made of porcelain, ceramics, glass or other heat-resistant materials.

Before using in the oven, check:

• the maximum permissible temperature,
• thermal shock resistance,
• suitability for use in a microwave oven,
• the recommended method for cooling the dish,
• whether it is dishwasher-safe,
• how to handle it safely once heated.

A hot dish should be served on a suitable trivet or surface to protect the table.

Egg cups and breakfast accessories

Egg cups make it easier to serve soft-boiled eggs in a stable manner. They can form part of the breakfast tableware in a hotel, restaurant, guesthouse or café.

It is worth matching them to cups, breakfast plates and other items in the service. The diameter of the recess, the stability of the base and ease of cleaning are all important factors.

How to match accessories to tableware?

Accessories do not necessarily have to come from the same collection as the plates and cups. However, they should maintain colour or stylistic consistency with the rest of the tableware.

You can take into account factors such as:

• the colour and shade of the porcelain,
• material – glass, wood, metal, melamine or ceramics,
• type of finish – matt, glossy or textured,
• the shape and lines of the tableware,
• the colour of the cutlery and glassware,
• the interior style and the nature of the menu.

Wooden accessories go well with porcelain that has a natural, handcrafted look. Stainless steel and glass suit more modern settings, whilst classic white porcelain is a versatile choice.

Accessories for restaurants, hotels and buffets

Tableware can be used in:

• à la carte restaurants,
• hotels and hotel restaurants,
• cafés and patisseries,
• breakfast buffets,
• bistros and self-service establishments,
• catering companies,
• conference and banquet halls.

When serving a large number of guests, ease of cleaning, the ability to restock quickly and convenient storage of individual items are particularly important.

What should you look out for before buying?

When choosing tableware for your establishment, it is worth checking:

• the product’s intended use and function,
• the material and finish,
• dimensions and capacity,
• stability on a table or sideboard,
• ease of use for guests and staff,
• recommended cleaning and care instructions,
• suitability for contact with heat,
• the amount of storage space required.

Performance characteristics vary depending on the specific product. Before use, please familiarise yourself with the information and symbols on the product’s information card.

Why choose professional tableware accessories?

• they complement the tableware and organise the table setting,
• they streamline the serving of condiments, bread, desserts and drinks,
• they help tailor the serving style to the nature of the menu,
• they are available in a wide range of materials, colours and sizes,
• they include equipment for restaurants, buffets, cafés and catering,
• they combine functionality with an aesthetic design.

Discover tableware accessories for the professional catering industry and choose items that will complement your tableware, streamline service and help create a consistent dining experience in your establishment.